Single Idea 13605

[catalogued under 27. Natural Reality / A. Classical Physics / 1. Mechanics / d. Gravity]

Full Idea

If gravity be called a force, a cause is supposed which produces effects without itself diminishing, and incorrect conceptions of the causal connexions of things are thereby fostered.

Gist of Idea

Gravity isn't a force, because it produces effects without diminishing

Source

J.R. Mayer (Remarks on the forces of inorganic Nature [1842], p.199), quoted by Brian Ellis - Scientific Essentialism 8.03

Book Reference

Ellis,Brian: 'Scientific Essentialism' [CUP 2007], p.266


A Reaction

This seems like a brilliant prelude to the proposal that gravity is actually the 'curvature' of space (whatever that is!).

Related Idea

Idea 21162 Only supersymmetry offers to incorporate gravity into the scheme [New Sci.]